
E58 | You think you're the problem? That's Internalised Ableism
From WTF is AuDHD? by Ellie & Paige Harwood
March 16, 2026 · 40 min · Season 2 · Episode 58
About this episode
This episode explores internalised ableism and its impact on neurodivergent individuals' self-perception and mental health.
In this episode, we unpack the concept of internalised ableism - and how it can shape the way neurodivergent people see themselves. Growing up in a world designed for neurotypical brains often means receiving constant messages that we’re lazy, disorganised, too sensitive, or not trying hard enough. Over time, those messages can become internalised, turning into our own inner voice. We talk about what ableism actually is, why AuDHD people are vulnerable to internalising it, and the ways it has shown up in our own lives - from pushing through burnout to holding ourselves to impossible standards. This episode explores the shame many neurodivergent people carry, and how recognising internalised ableism can be the first step toward self-compassion and understanding. SOCIAL @wtfisaudhdpodcast Watch us on YouTube! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
People in this episode
Hosts: Ellie Harwood, Paige Harwood
Topics covered
- internalised ableism
- neurodivergence
- self-compassion
- mental health
- societal expectations
Keywords
- internalised ableism
- neurodivergent
- self-criticism
- burnout
- mental health
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Acast
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